Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
The SJO Dance Team pose for a photo while waiting for Friday's performance results at Grossinger Motors Arena during the IHSA Competitive Dance State Finals.
BLOOMINGTON - Going to state is a big deal. Competing against the top 30 teams in the state, the St. Joseph-Ogden dance team finished 16th out of 81 high school dance programs at this year's IHSA Competitive Dance State Finals. "It was just like the best experience in the world," said senior Olivia Getty before the 12 finalists were announced at Friday's preliminary round at Grossinger Motors Arena. "Regardless of how we finish, I feel really proud of how we danced today. I feel like we did well." The best part about competing at state for Reese Wheatley, one of two seniors on the squad, was spending the day with her team, giving advice throughout the day, and being there for them. "It just means so much to be here," she said. "It just shows how hard our whole team worked throughout the entire season."
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
The SJO Dance Team performs their modern dance routine in the preliminary round at Grossinger Motors Arena during the IHSA Competitive Dance State Finals.
Wheatley's message to her fellow teammates was, "Remember that you are not alone. Everyone is going through something, so show up every day and do your very best. Keep yourselves and each other proud." The Spartan Dance Team roster also included Adelyn Childers, Abigail Getty, Gracyn Sjoken, Abigail Bello, Alivia Learned, Hadley McDonald, Lilly Sollars, Ava Gallo, and Lilyah Jones. Hudson was assisted by former dance team member Kaitlyn Hess.
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